TWO pupils from the Riding for the Disabled group at Welburn Hall School near Kirkbymoorside had success last weekend when competing at the RDA Dressage and Countryside Challenge Regional Finals for North, East and South Yorkshire at the Pennine Community Centre at Wakefield.

Bethany Fuigill from North Grimston came joint first in the dressage and first in the Countryside Challenge. Sebastian Page from Pickering came joint first in the dressage and second in the Countryside Challenge.

They have both qualified for the RDA National Championships which are held at Hartpury in Gloucestershire.

RDA Welburn Hall School Group launched an appeal in September last year to raise £15,000 to refurbish their arena. Ryedale Show started the appeal with a donation and then a grant of £6,500 was awarded by the People’s Postcode Lottery Fund. Other local charities, businesses and private individuals have contributed to the fund and to date they have raised £12,000.

Recently RDA Welburn Hall School Group has become an RDA Endurance Group and for the final push to reach their target they are doing a sponsored ride at the end of June. A spokesperson said: “We feel it will give them a sense of achievement in being able to contribute to the fund while having the enjoyment of riding out in the countryside.”

“Most of the riders will not have ridden outside an arena or the school grounds. They will all be given certificates for their achievements.”

If anyone feels they would like to sponsor a pony and rider please send donations to Mrs E Crookenden, Rudland House, Fadmoor, York. YO62 7JJ. Cheques to be made payable to R.D.A. Welburn Hall School Group.